Raw Banana & Banana Stem Stuffed Paratha – Healthy Indian Flatbread Recipe

Raw Banana and Banana Stem Stuffed Paratha Recipe
Serves: 4 | Cuisine: Indian | Course: Lunch | Diet: Diabetic-Friendly

A wholesome and nutritious variation of the traditional paratha, this Raw Banana and Banana Stem Stuffed Paratha combines the health benefits of banana stems and raw bananas, making it a deliciously unique meal. Ideal for a diabetic-friendly diet, it’s perfect for those looking for a low-calorie yet filling option. The soft parathas are stuffed with a spicy and flavorful mix of mashed raw banana and banana stem, a combination that packs a punch of taste and texture. Pair it with a bowl of yogurt or tangy aam ka chunda for an unforgettable experience!

Ingredients:

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Instructions:

1. Boiling the Raw Banana:

   • Begin by boiling the raw bananas in a pressure cooker. Cut the bananas into two halves, remove the edges, and place them in the cooker. Add enough water to cover the bananas, along with a pinch of salt. Pressure cook for about 4 whistles.
   • Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally. Peel off the skin and mash the bananas into a smooth mixture. Set aside.

2. Cooking the Banana Stem Filling:

   • Heat some oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter for about 10 seconds.
   • Add the chopped onion, garlic, ginger, and green chili to the pan. Sauté until the onions soften and become translucent.
   • Add the chopped banana stem along with 1/2 cup of water. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for about 15 minutes until the banana stem becomes tender.
   • Once the stem is cooked, add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, black pepper, amchur powder, and salt. Stir well.
   • Add the mashed raw banana to this mixture, blending everything together. Let the mixture cook on low heat for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine. Once done, turn off the heat and set the mixture aside to cool.

3. Making the Paratha Dough:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour with a pinch of salt. Gradually add water to knead it into a smooth, soft dough. Make sure the dough is neither too stiff nor too soft, as it needs to be pliable for rolling out.
   • Once the dough is ready, divide it into small lemon-sized balls, which will form the base of your parathas.

4. Assembling the Stuffed Parathas:

   • Dust the surface with flour and take one dough ball. Roll it out into a small 3-inch diameter circle.
   • Place a generous spoonful of the prepared filling on one half of the circle. Fold the other half of the dough over to cover the filling, creating a half-moon shape.
   • Pinch the edges together to seal the paratha. Gently press it down, then roll it out again into a flat paratha, taking care not to apply too much pressure so the filling doesn’t spill out.

5. Cooking the Paratha:

   • Heat a skillet or tava over medium heat. Place the rolled paratha onto the hot skillet and cook it on one side for 10-15 seconds.
   • Flip the paratha and smear some oil or ghee on top. Flip it again, and smear the other side. Continue cooking and flipping until both sides turn golden brown with crispy spots.
   • Remove from the skillet and repeat with the remaining dough and filling.

6. Serving:

   • Serve the Raw Banana and Banana Stem Stuffed Parathas hot with a bowl of fresh curd (yogurt) or tangy aam ka chunda (mango pickle) for a delightful meal.

Nutritional Information (Approx.):

Tips:

• If you find it difficult to roll out the paratha due to the filling, you can always use parchment paper to roll it out and avoid sticking.
• Make sure to use fresh banana stems for the best flavor and texture in your paratha.
• This recipe can also be made using a combination of whole wheat flour and multi-grain flour for added health benefits.

Enjoy your warm and nutritious Raw Banana and Banana Stem Stuffed Paratha, a healthy Indian delicacy that’s sure to become a family favorite!